ABOUT PATHWAYS

Have you ever thought about becoming a surf lifesaver? Or perhaps you’re already a member and would like to know what other opportunities are available to you within the movement?

Each and every year, thousands of men, women and young adults across the state line up to patrol Queensland’s coastline, providing a vital community service and saving thousands of lives in the process.

However, off the beach and behind the scenes, there are literally hundreds of other jobs and opportunities available to those who aren’t confident in the water or don’t want to get their feet wet. Whether it’s a surf sports coach, a club treasurer, a BBQ coordinator or a junior activities age manager, there’s a role for everyone in surf life saving.

Importantly, becoming a surf lifesaver also offers many opportunities both within and outside of the movement.

There is an almost endless scope of lifesaving-related careers available to members, the likes of taking up a medical profession or joining the Defence Force or other emergency services, and many of these doors are opened and supported by the skills learnt during your time as a surf lifesaver.

The Pathways project is all about showcasing the opportunities that lifesaving opens up to all, regardless of age, gender, shape or size. We’ve used real volunteers to share real stories about their involvement within the movement – how it’s shaped them personally, and benefited them professionally.

Whether you’re a new member, current member or a lifesaver returning after a few years’ break, we encourage you to look through the countless opportunities that are available for you to pursue, both on and off the beach. It might just put you on the pathway to a place you never imagined.

ARE YOU A LIFESAVER?

If you are already involved in surf lifesaving, find new pathways based on your current role. If you are new to surf lifesaving, you can explore all the roles and opportunities available by choosing an area of interest.

Director of Surf Sports

Junior Club Captain

Youth & Membership Development Officer

Further Education roles

Assessor

Community Awareness Presenter

Inflatable Rescue Boat Crew

Inflatable Rescue Boat Driver

Lifeguard

Patrol Captain

Patrol Member – Advanced Resuscitation

Patrol Member – Pain Management

Trainer

Inflatable Rescue Boat Driver

Take your surf and rescue skills to the next level and get out on the water in an inflatable rescue boat.

The inflatable rescue boat (IRB) is a vital piece of Surf Life Saving equipment, requiring two people to operate. As the driver you are responsible for safely and efficiently negotiating the surf while driving the IRB and communicating effectively with the crew member to ensure the safe operation of the craft, the safety of your crew and patient/s.

As the IRB driver you may also be called upon to assist in conducting search and rescue operations and as such, liaising with other emergency response services as required.

"Knowing everyone had gone home safely to their families that day is a very rewarding experience!"

CAITLIN – PATROL CAPTAIN

Requirements

IRB Drivers must be:

a minimum of 17 years old on day of course commencement, and

at least 17 years of age on the date of final assessment

the holder of a current recreational marine drivers license (needs to be obtained externally to the surf life saving education structure) to meet local state/NT marine licensing requirements.

Applicants must be also proficient in the following awards:

SLSA Bronze Medallion

IRB Crew Certificate

Radio Operators Certificate

Training

Similar to the IRB Crew course, the IRB Driver course is conducted over 3-4 separate days to expose the candidate to varying conditions whilst driving to provide them with the skills and knowledge to effectively drive and maintain an IRB in surf rescue operations.

This Course Covers

Understand the roles and responsibilities of an IRB Driver

Drive an IRB

Perform rescues in an IRB as a driver

Prepare and maintain IRB motor.

Nationally Recognised Units

Upon completion of the course, the following Nationally Recognised units will be awarded:

PUASAR014A: Operate and maintain a small powercraft and motor for rescue operations